Maine Education Association Honors Award Winners at Annual Dinner

During an annual awards banquet, Maine Education Association (MEA) leaders presented MEA’s Annual Awards, recognizing MEA members and community members who have been exemplary in MEA’s advocacy for Maine students, educators, and public education.

MEA Vice President Beth French and Mike Langley of Merrymeeting EA, a custodian at Woodside Elementary School in Topsham and the Joan McGovern Education Support Professional of the Year

Custodian Named 2026 Joan McGovern Education Support Professional of the Year

MEA named Mike Langley of Merrymeeting EA, a custodian at Woodside Elementary School in Topsham, as the Joan McGovern Education Support Professional of the Year.

As the daytime custodian, Langley keeps the building running by cleaning, fixing, restocking, and supporting the busy school day. For many students, he is far more than the person who cares for the building. In his nomination, colleagues described Langley as a mentor, a valued colleague, and a trusted presence known as “Mr. Mike.”

What truly sets Langley apart is his commitment to providing students with authentic learning experiences beyond the classroom walls. Over the years, he has built outdoor learning spaces, cleared the “Langley Loop” walking trail, and helped transform Woodside’s grounds into places where science, reading, art, and exploration come alive.

Often on his own time after school or on weekends, Langley leads hands-on experiences because he believes students deserve these opportunities. From apple cider pressing and ice-fishing days to the Woodside Maple Syrup Project, he connects students to Maine’s agricultural and outdoor heritage in ways that have become lasting memories for families throughout the community.

His dedication to students and the community extend far beyond the school day. Langley coaches sports teams, teaches students to ride unicycles with the Woodside One Wheelers, and works closely with teachers and the PTO to turn ideas into meaningful opportunities for students.

Through his dedication and generosity, Langley has made a lasting impact on students, colleagues, families, and the entire Woodside community. His work reflects MEA’s commitment to supporting students and strengthening public education.

As the 2026 Joan McGovern Education Support Professional of the Year, Langley will represent Maine for the National Education Association (NEA) Education Support Professional of the Year honor, presented at the NEA Annual Education Support Professional Conference next spring.

MEA also presented the following annual awards to MEA members and community allies:

Kelsey Boucher (Lewiston EA), K-6 art teacher at Robert V. Connors Elementary School in Lewiston

Ashley Bryan Award: Kelsey Boucher

A proud Lewiston native, Kelsey Boucher (Lewiston EA) is a dedicated educator whose commitment to her community has come full circle. A graduate of Lewiston Public Schools, she returned home to serve the same district that shaped her, bringing creativity, leadership, and a strong commitment to equity to her work.

After discovering her passion for art education at the University of Southern Maine, Boucher began teaching elementary visual arts in Lewiston. She currently teaches art to K-6 students at Robert V. Connors Elementary School, where she encourages creativity and student voice every day.

Boucher’s impact extends well beyond the art room. She serves as co‑advisor to the Civil Rights Team, K-6 Art Cohort Leader, and Connors Unified Art Lead, and she has facilitated the Building Anti‑Racist White Educators affinity group.

Ashby Bartke (St. George EA), middle school math teacher at St. George Municipal School Unit

Honor Medal Award: Ashby Bartke

A dedicated middle school math teacher at St. George Municipal School Unit, Ashby Bartke (St. George EA) is known for leading with integrity, courage, and a strong commitment to her students and colleagues. Each day, she brings care and professionalism to her classroom while serving as a trusted advocate within her school community.

As advisor to the Civil Rights Team, Bartke manages the Civil Rights Lending Library, which provides the school community with inclusive texts that support thoughtful conversations about race, religion, identity, and belonging.

Through this work, she has created opportunities for students to engage with inclusive learning materials in a supportive environment. When concerns were raised by parents and administrators this year, Bartke defended students’ rights to access these resources and emphasized their role in building understanding and supporting a safe school environment.

Bartke’s leadership extends beyond her work with students. A respected and active member of her local union, she is often the colleague others turn to for guidance and support. Calm and steady in challenging moments, she stands up for educators’ professional rights while keeping students at the center of her advocacy.

MEA Vice President Beth French and Brittney Drew (Calais EA), 7th- and 8th-grade science teacher

Golden Apple: Brittney Drew

Throughout her time in the Calais School Department, Brittney Drew (Calais EA) has shown a strong commitment to the students, families, and community she serves. She has supported students across grade levels and taken on a variety of roles inside and outside the classroom.

From serving as an Educational Technician and pre‑K lead teacher to her current role as a 7th- and 8th-grade science teacher, Drew has consistently stepped in where she is needed. This range of experience reflects her dedication to supporting students at every stage of their education.

Drew’s impact extends beyond the classroom. She brings care and purpose to her work, supports diverse learners, and gives her time to extracurricular programs and community efforts to help ensure all students have access to opportunities.

Jennifer Marshall (South Portland Service Association) and MEA President Jesse Hargrove

Human and Civil Rights: Jennifer Marshall

When U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) increased operations in Maine this winter, Jennifer Marshall (South Portland Service Association) stepped up to support colleagues and students in South Portland. She worked to ensure they could travel to and from school and work safely and without fear.

To help reduce stress and prevent unnecessary fear among students, Marshall created a radio code system for drivers so that ICE activity could be communicated without alarming students. This approach helped limit exposure to fear and trauma while keeping staff informed.

Marshall’s commitment extends beyond the workplace. She supports families through the South Portland community garden and the mobile food pantry and has helped coordinate food deliveries for immigrant families who were afraid to leave their homes. As a union leader, she also advocates for fairness in the workplace, including helping secure a new position for a member who could no longer perform their job due to an ADA-related issue.

Julia Gay (MEA Student Observer), MEA Vice President Beth French, Pink Feather founder Jen Kyllonen, Jeni Jordan (Oxford Hills EA President), Pink Feather founder Joni Gordon, and Stephanie Michaud (MEA Board Member)

Corporate Award: Pink Feather Foundation

Founded in 2011, the Pink Feather Foundation was created to address a critical need for students by providing access to clean, well-fitting clothing so they can feel comfortable and ready to learn. In 2018, the foundation launched its Teacher Program, recognizing the important role educators play in supporting students’ well-being.

As the program has grown, so has its impact. What began as a small effort has expanded with strong community support, allowing the foundation to operate a large warehouse and work toward establishing a permanent home. This growth has been made possible through donations and a shared commitment to supporting students.

Through the Teacher Program, educators can discreetly order clothing, shoes, and accessories for students in kindergarten through grade 12 at no cost. Teachers work directly with students when possible to help preserve dignity and build trust. All orders remain confidential and are prepared and delivered quickly, often within a few days.

Pam Albert, Chair of the Auburn School Committee

Friend of Education: Pamela Albert

As chair of the Auburn School Committee, Pam Albert has been a steady and thoughtful presence for Auburn’s schools. She has shown a strong commitment to students, educators, and the broader school community through her leadership and advocacy.

Albert’s commitment to the Auburn School Department began well before she joined the School Committee as an at-large member in 2022. She served on the Edward Little High School Building Committee and brought her professional expertise as an epidemiologist to the COVID Health and Safety Committee, where she helped support informed decision making during a critical time.

That commitment continues through her ongoing service in the district. Albert serves on advisory committees focused on long-term planning, advocates for staff training and student safety, and recognizes the work of educators and staff during school committee meetings. She also supports students and families beyond the classroom by helping organize efforts such as Project Grad Night and a community food drive during a lapse in SNAP benefits.

To learn more about MEA’s Annual Awards, visit maineea.org/awards.

Annual Mentor Trainings: Supporting New Educators with Research-Based Best Practices

The Maine Department of Education (DOE) Educator Excellence Team is excited to be hosting its Annual Mentor Trainings in locations across Maine this August and September.

This no-cost professional learning opportunity is intended for teachers interested in mentoring new educators or educators who are new to their school administrative unit (SAU). It is designed to support and strengthen educator mentorship statewide by providing attendees with the tools, knowledge, and community needed to make a meaningful impact.

Registration is open now through July 20, 2026.

What’s New

The Annual Mentor Training builds upon prior collaborative work with teacher leaders, administrators, and higher education and technical assistance center partners. It has recently been updated with the latest research and best practices in mentoring and inclusive education. Designed with direct input from educators, the training follows a scaffolded approach to provide a more personalized, just-in-time learning experience.

The training format is as follows:

A one-day, in-person session from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
One virtual follow-up session (two hours, mid-year)
Contact hours awarded for all training components
Training offered at no cost

The one-day, in-person sessions are scheduled in multiple locations across the state. Participants should select the date/location that is most convenient for them:

Tuesday, August 4, 2026 – York County Community College in Wells
Wednesday, August 12, 2026 — Eastern Maine Community College in Bangor
Thursday, August 20, 2026 – Bates College in Lewiston
Friday, September 18, 2026 – A session will also be held in Aroostook County in collaboration with CACE (Central Aroostook Council on Education). Registration information will be sent directly from CACE to SAUs in Aroostook County.

Additional Benefits for Participants

Access to a mentor forum through EnGiNE, the Maine DOE’s learning management system, for ongoing support, networking, and resource sharing with mentors throughout the state
Community of practice meetings offered virtually in the fall and spring
Updated materials and resources available for SAUs to use locally with new mentors
Office hour sign-up available during the school year for ongoing support

Testimonials

Participants from the 2024-2025 training session shared:

“This will help me to start a mentorship off on the right foot. Thank you!”

“It is never too late to invest in the success of future teachers! Be proactive and engage others before they leave the system.”

“Like our students, we all learn in different ways, and we need to find a way that will help the mentee the best.”

“I realize the important role I could have in a new teacher’s life.”

Participants said as a result of the training, they better understand:

Different ways to support new educators and to help them feel confident and successful.
How to ask questions to guide rather than just tell educators what to do.
Building relationships with mentees is crucial to mentoring.
Mentoring is a process of continued partnership, feedback, and constructive conversations.

Be the mentor who makes a difference! Sign up today for the free regional training that best fits your schedule. (Registration links for each location are hyperlinked above.) Pre-work and specific location instructions will be emailed three weeks prior to each session.

Please note that registration will close on July 20, 2026, and a maximum of 50 participants is allowed per location. A minimum of 12 participants is required in order to run a session.

With questions about this year’s Annual Mentor Trainings, please contact Maine DOE Educator Excellence Coordinator Christina O’Neal, PhD, at christina.l.oneal@maine.gov.

Maine High School Students Encouraged to Enter 22nd Annual Will McDonough Sports Writing Contest

The Boston Globe is encouraging high school students across New England to showcase their storytelling and journalism skills through the 22nd Annual Will McDonough Sports Writing Contest.

The free contest is open to students in grades 9-12 residing in any New England state, including Maine. It offers students an opportunity to develop and share their nonfiction writing centered on sports. Educators, school staff, journalism advisers, English teachers, coaches, and families are encouraged to share this opportunity with students who may be interested in sports writing, journalism, storytelling, or communications.

Students may submit one original nonfiction entry of up to 700 words. Entries may be written in either first person or third person and must have sports as a central element. Submissions can be newly written or previously published works created after August 15, 2025.

Contest organizers note that all work must be wholly created by the student and will be evaluated based on the strength of the writing, reporting, use of journalism practices, and the ability to engage readers.

The contest honors Will McDonough, a legendary sportswriter best known for his decades spent covering professional sports in New England. McDonough was widely respected for his reporting, storytelling, and commitment to journalistic excellence.

Contest Guidelines

To participate, students must:

Be enrolled in grades 9-12 as of May 1, 2026
Reside in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, or Vermont
Submit one nonfiction sports-related essay
Keep submissions to 700 words or fewer
Submit their entry by May 27, 2026

How to Enter

Students must complete two steps before the May 27, 2026, deadline:

Have an adult (18+) complete the entry form, which can be found here.
Email their submission to McDonoughContest@globe.com.

For official contest rules and additional information, please click here. Judging will conclude on June 8, 2026, and winners will be announced on June 9, 2026.

Day Mountain Regional Middle School Students Spotlight Maine Wildlife and Conservation in New Podcast

At Day Mountain Regional Middle School (DMRMS) in MSAD 58, learning often reaches far beyond the classroom walls. The latest example comes from the DMRMS Environmentalist Club, where students have launched the first episodes of their new “Wild and Wonderful Podcast.”

What began as a small club project has quickly grown into something more—a platform for curiosity, community storytelling, and a deep appreciation for Maine’s natural world.

Under the thoughtful guidance of advisor Jami Badershall, sixth graders Lila Campbell and Chloe Ames stepped behind the microphone for Episode 1, sitting down with Roger Lambert, a Master Maine Guide and lifelong storyteller. Their conversation explored how climate change is affecting local animal populations and traced Lambert’s decades-long navigation of Maine’s woods and waters. Badershall intentionally chose Lambert as the club’s first guest; as a seasoned guide and natural storyteller, he could carry the conversation, if needed, and help build the students’ confidence. Badershall also wanted someone who has witnessed long-term changes in Maine’s wilderness—climate-related and otherwise—and could reflect thoughtfully on those shifts. The result was a rich, engaging discussion that showcased both Lambert’s experience and the students’ thoughtful preparation.

In Episode 2, the students welcomed Liz Latti, Director of Fisheries and Hatcheries at the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. Campbell and Ames asked about Latti’s career path, her leadership role, and the challenges that Maine’s fisheries are currently facing—particularly the impact of recent droughts on fish populations. The conversation highlighted not only wildlife stewardship but also the growing interest among our students in science, conservation, and public service.

The podcast was originally intended to be just one small piece of the Environmentalist Club. After the first interview, however, the students were hooked. They wanted to do more, and they have since done a fabulous job. Their interview subjects consistently leave impressed by their preparation, poise, and curiosity.

Badershall’s background in journalism has been an asset. She helps students craft thoughtful, open-ended questions, while encouraging them to listen closely and adapt in the moment. Although the students prepare a list of questions before each episode, it has been exciting for Badershall to watch them adjust naturally as conversations unfold. Perhaps most impressive is their confidence; they are not intimidated by the accomplished adults sitting across from them.

For Ames, the experience has been transformative.

“It has given me a lot to think about for careers that involve the outdoors,” she shared. “There are so many options and different fields you can go into. We also talk a lot about the changes they have seen in our wildlife and the environment around them. I used to want to be a game warden, but now I want to be an environmental journalist and educate other people about climate change and how it affects us.”

Ames also reflected on her personal growth.

“I’ve gotten better at asking questions, and it has helped me build my confidence. I used to not like to speak up like that, but now it’s fun.”

The “Wild and Wonderful Podcast” is a powerful reminder of what happens when students are given a platform to explore their interests, connect with community experts, and ask meaningful questions about the world around them. DMRMS students are proving that learning can indeed be wild and wonderful—and their voices are well worth listening to.

This story was submitted by MSAD 58. To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out the good news submission form.

Registration Open for New School Nurse Orientation in August

On August 12, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Coordinated School Health Team will host its annual New School Nurse Orientation in Augusta.

If you have hired or plan to hire a new nurse for your school over the summer, please be sure to include the New School Nurse Orientation in their new hire work plan. This daylong event is a specialized program designed to help nurses transition into the unique specialty of school nursing.

The New School Nurse Orientation will be followed up with continued learning opportunities, connections, and support facilitated by the Maine DOE Coordinated School Health Team, which includes school nurse regional liaisons.

When: August 12, 2026, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Rooms A&B at the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) building, 109 Capitol Street, Augusta, ME 04333
Cost: $25
Registration: For more information, and to see the agenda and register, please visit theevent website. Attendees must register in advance.

The Coordinated School Health Team is part of the Maine DOE Office of School and Student Supports. For further information or with questions, please contact DOESchoolandStudentSupports@Maine.gov.

Rural THRIVE Foundations Program Supports Maine’s Early-Career Educators

As schools across Maine continue to welcome and support new educators, the Rural THRIVE Foundations program is helping early-career teachers to build confidence, strengthen instructional practice, and establish meaningful professional connections during their first years in the classroom.

Rural Thrive is a project of the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development. It is funded with $3.3 million in Congressionally Directed Spending awarded to the University of Maine System to provide ongoing professional development, mentorship and other evidence-based support, with the goal of leading to better resilience and retention among rural educators and school leaders, as well as improving PK-12 student outcomes.

This year, nearly 30 early-career educators from across the state participated in Foundations programming. Participants consistently reported valuing the opportunity to receive dedicated support from experienced educators outside of their immediate supervisory context, connect with peers across districts, and build professional relationships that helped them feel more supported as they transitioned into teaching.

The Foundations “Guided Trail” pairs new teachers with experienced educators from across Maine for weekly virtual mentorship meetings, reflective classroom observation, and monthly Communities of Practice focused on practical strategies and professional growth. Participants also attend a small number of in-person gatherings, including a statewide Spring Retreat.

The program is designed to complement—not replace—district mentoring and induction supports by providing additional professional connections and dedicated reflective support outside of an evaluative context.

Rural THRIVE Foundations is a mostly virtual opportunity, making participation accessible for educators across Maine’s rural and geographically diverse communities. Participants who complete program expectations may receive up to $1,000.

The program is open to educators beginning their teaching careers in Maine public schools and aims to help new teachers feel supported, connected, and prepared for long-term success in the profession.

Additional information about Rural THRIVE Foundations is available here. Questions may be directed to Laura Bean at laura.bean@maine.edu.

Maine Loves Public Schools Announces Season 2 of “Learning from Maine”

Three new episodes air Thursdays at 8:30 PM on Maine Public Television beginning May 21st — with four more stories coming this fall

Should all Maine towns have universal pre-K access? Is the best way to keep teenagers in school by getting them working in their communities? Can Generative AI be used in our schools ethically?

These and other vital questions will be featured in the second season of Learning from Maine, a new video series about what’s happening and what’s possible in Maine public schools. A co-production between Maine Loves Public Schools and Maine Public, this limited series explores the innovations and triumphs in classrooms across Maine. All episodes will be available to watch at MaineLovesPublicSchools.org following their broadcast on Maine Public Television.

“Learning from Maine” seeks to share what is working in Maine’s public schools and to give educators, parents, and state leaders a window into promising ideas that can spread to other districts. Hosted by pioneering Maine educator Derek Pierce, each episode goes inside a Maine school to find educators, students, and communities doing something extraordinary to address issues from early childhood education and student literacy to boosting graduation rates and preparing Maine’s future workforce.

Watch the Learning from Maine Season 2 Trailer Here

“It’s been a joy and an honor to see what teachers and students are doing around the state,” Pierce said. “I can’t wait to share these stories with everyone who cares about Maine’s public schools.”

“We are very excited to help bring this series to our audience,” noted Susan Tran, Maine Public’s Chief Programming Officer. “Sharing these stories of innovation in Maine classrooms aligns with Maine Public’s educational mission and our ongoing efforts to provide opportunities for lifelong learning.”

SEASON 2 EPISODES:

Episode 1 (May 21) Margaret Chase Smith Community School, Skowhegan: How a community built the first school in the country where students can enroll as early as 6 weeks old and remain there through elementary school.
Episode 2 (May 28) Mt. Desert Island High School: How one school is teaching students to explore the promise of artificial intelligence—while grappling honestly with its dangers.
Episode 3 (June 4) Brewer High School: How connecting students to real-world careers through Extended Learning Opportunities has led to higher graduation rates and fewer dropouts.

Four more “Learning from Maine” stories will be released this fall. All episodes are free to watch at MaineLovesPublicSchools.org and on the MLPS YouTube channel, and can also be viewed on demand on Maine Public’s website. You can sign up for updates on “Learning from Maine” at this link.

About Maine Loves Public Schools: Maine Loves Public Schools (MLPS) is a statewide organization of educational organizations with a goal of promoting stories from within Maine classrooms. Supported by a broad coalition of educators, from superintendents and principals to school board members and CTE directors, MLPS has engaged hundreds of “Ambassadors” across the state over the past three years. See a full list of supporting organizations at this link.

About Maine Public: Maine Public is Maine’s premier, independent media resource, dedicated to creating exceptional opportunities for the communities it serves to engage with critical issues, compelling stories, and quality entertainment. Maine Public is renowned for creating award-winning programs, as well as airing content from PBS, NPR, and other independent producers. Formed in 1992, Maine Public is an independently owned and operated nonprofit organization with office and studio locations in Bangor, Augusta, Lewiston, and Portland, Maine. For more information, visit mainepublic.org

Dirigo Program at Sumner Memorial High School Creates Flexible Pathways for Student Success

Pictured: Dirigo Program students make mini cupcakes for an open house to welcome RSU 24 community members to learn about the new alternative education program.

At Sumner Memorial High School in RSU 24 (Eastbrook, Franklin, Gouldsboro, Mariaville, Sorrento, Steuben, Sullivan, Waltham, and Winter Harbor), a new alternative education program is helping students reconnect with their education.

A few years ago, Sumner Memorial High School’s previous alternative education program, Pathways, was dissolved. Not long after that, school leaders noticed a troubling trend: The local dropout rate had increased. Determined to respond, Amy Watson, principal of Sumner Memorial High School, partnered with staff to reimagine a program that could once again support students whose needs were not being met in traditional settings.

The result is the Dirigo Program, which in its first year has created an environment designed to balance flexibility, accountability, and strong student support. The program currently serves 16 students in grades 10-12. Led by teachers Lexi Tracey and Michael Mutlu, it offers a highly individualized, relationship-centered approach to alternative education, helping students reconnect with their learning and stay on track for graduation.

A Personalized Approach to Learning

At the heart of the Dirigo Program is a commitment to student-centered learning. Students follow a variety of schedules. Some attend full-time, while others split their day between mainstream classes, online coursework, and the alternative education program. This flexibility allows students to stay connected to school while managing responsibilities outside the classroom.

“We recognize that not all students learn the same way, and not all students are navigating the same life circumstances,” Mutlu shared. “Our goal is to provide structure and support while also honoring their independence.”

Enrollment in the program is intentional. Students may self-refer or be referred by a school counselor, social worker, administrator, or family member. Before joining, prospective students meet with Tracey and Mutlu. Each student participates in an interview, shadows the program, and learns about and commits to the program’s expectations through a signed agreement. This process helps ensure students are enrolling in the program for the right reasons, are ready to engage, and will benefit from the opportunity.

Reengaging Students Through Flexibility and Support

This personalized approach is especially impactful for students who have struggled in traditional settings. For many, the Dirigo Program offers a critical second chance. One student, now enrolled in a hybrid schedule through an online platform, had previously struggled to stay engaged in the mainstream setting. After facing challenges during their sophomore and junior years, they found renewed motivation through the program.

“They like the accountability and guidance,” Tracey explained. “They also, though, appreciate that we understand life can be complicated.”

Now back on track, this student is expected to graduate on time, which they shared seemed impossible to them at one point.

In this coastal community, many students work in the local lobstering industry, often taking on long hours or overnight shifts to support their families. In the past, these responsibilities sometimes led students to disengage from school altogether. This program, though, takes a different approach.

Two Dirigo Program seniors break down traps at Traps 2 Treasure, an OceansWide project focused on cleaning ghost gear out of Maine oceans and recycling the materials, for a community service project in March 2026.

Through a structured check-in system, students communicate with teachers about their work schedules. This allows staff to provide flexibility around attendance while maintaining high academic expectations. Tracey and Mutlu have developed individualized tracking systems to monitor each student’s progress, breaking coursework into weekly goals and manageable steps. This model helps students balance real-world responsibilities with their education without feeling penalized for circumstances beyond their control.

“It’s about respect,” Mutlu noted. “These students are contributing to their families and communities, but they are still kids who need support and opportunities to succeed.”

Looking ahead, Tracey and Mutlu say they hope to expand opportunities for these students for extended learning opportunities (ELOs) and strengthen pathways into the trades. These efforts would further align students’ education with their career goals while supporting local workforce needs.

Hands-On, Interdisciplinary Learning

In addition to flexible structures and strong relationships, instruction in the Dirigo Program emphasizes project-based, interdisciplinary learning aligned with school and state standards and is held to high academic rigor.

Students have engaged in a range of creative and rigorous projects, including:

Designing and scaling a large window display, integrating math and art.
Researching influential women for an International Women’s Day project, combining English and history.
Participating in a mock legislative session, where students developed and defended positions on real-world issues.
Completing interactive, project-based work in science and social studies.

Tracey and Mutlu collaborate closely with their mainstream colleagues to ensure students remain on track academically, even as their learning experiences look different. The success of the program relies on strong collaboration across the school community. Regular coordination with the school counselor, school social worker, and administrators is critical for monitoring students’ progress and providing wraparound supports.

Tracey and Mutlu also maintain consistent communication with families, sending weekly updates that highlight attendance, academic progress, and student growth. Families have expressed appreciation for this level of connection, allowing them to know that their students are being supported.

“RSU 24’s students’ families typically only get calls from the school when something bad has happened,” Tracey said. “Our weekly updates in the Dirigo Program shift this narrative by sharing the positives and building trust with our families, so we can work together to support our students.”

Celebrating Success and Changing the Narrative

The Dirigo Program is not only redefining how students learn but also reshaping how they are celebrated and recognized for their work and contributions to the school community.

At Sumner Memorial High School, the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework is deeply embedded in the school culture, with a strong emphasis on recognizing student achievement. As a result, Tracey and Mutlu ensure that students in the the program are acknowledged at the school level during monthly assemblies. This visibility helps both students and staff better understand the program and appreciate the positive impact it is having across the school.

These efforts reflect a broader goal: ensuring that every student feels seen, valued, and capable of success.

“We want our students to know they belong here and that their story isn’t finished yet,” Tracey shared.

At the Dirigo Program’s Senior Application Day, seven seniors gathered with a school counselor to apply to post-secondary programs. The underclassmen cooked and served breakfast for the seniors, as they worked on scholarship applications.

Although the Dirigo Program is only in its first year, it is already making a meaningful impact on the RSU 24 school community. Tracey and Mutlu will have six seniors graduating from the Dirigo Program this spring who are planning to pursue a variety of post-secondary plans, including college and the workforce.

This story was written in collaboration with Sumner Memorial High School (RSU 24) as part of an ongoing series to highlight alternative education programs across Maine. For more information about alternative education, please visit the Maine DOE Alternative Education webpage or contact Aubrie Howard, Maine DOE Student Success and Wellbeing Specialist, at aubrie.howard@maine.gov. To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out the good news submission form.

Student-Led ‘Interact Club’ Gains Momentum at Sanford High School

Students from Sanford High School rang bells outside stores during the holidays, served Thanksgiving dinner to veterans, and read to elementary students—all as part of a brand-new service club making waves in its first year.

The Interact Club launched this fall after student officers attended RYLA, a Rotary-sponsored leadership program for high school students in southern Maine.

“All of the officers went to RYLA, and after that, we all just kind of decided that we wanted to start a club here because all of the other schools that were there had an Interact Club,” said student Alessandra Castro, one of the founding officers.

Castro reached out to the Sanford-Springvale Rotary Club over the summer to establish the connection.

“We just got really inspired by the community over at RYLA, and we wanted to recreate that community,” Castro added.

Since September, the club has wasted no time getting involved. Members rang bells for the Salvation Army during the holiday season, raising more than $500 for the organization. They served Thanksgiving dinner to veterans at the local Elks Lodge in November and ran a lemonade-stand fundraiser. This spring, the group visited St. Thomas School to read to younger students as part of Read Across America week.

“I think it has been really rewarding. We’ve all put a lot of effort into this,” Eliza Allen, another student and officer, said. “We were able to connect a lot of people with a volunteer opportunity that was a good experience.”

The club meets on Tuesday afternoons and Wednesday mornings and has grown to approximately 30 members. Students earn community service hours for participating in group volunteer activities, making Interact Club an appealing option for those looking to give back while meeting graduation requirements.

Future projects include a collaboration with First 10 at Sanford Pride Elementary School and a fundraiser for Helping Mamas, a nonprofit that provides hygiene and self-care products to mothers who cannot afford them. The officers are also connecting with the Interact Club at Marshwood High School to explore additional opportunities. As a first-year club, the group is still finding its footing.

“We’re kind of just making a name for ourselves instead of trying to break out into the community,” Interact Club Advisor Liz White said.

But with enthusiastic leadership and a growing membership, Interact Club is already demonstrating the impact students can have when they work together toward a common goal. The junior officers will hold elections in May to ensure the club continues strong after they graduate next year.

This story was submitted by the Sanford School Department. To submit a good news story to the Maine DOE, please fill out the good news submission form.

Extended Learning Opportunities: Student Success on Display at the Hall of Flags

This story was written by Yarmouth High School senior Vagni Das as part of her Extended Learning Opportunity with the Maine DOE.

The Hall of Flags at the Maine State House was alight with energy on April 30, 2026, as students, educators, and business leaders came together from across the state to celebrate the impact of Extended Learning Opportunities (ELOs). From one side of the hall to the other, the space was filled with students presenting their ELOs, professionals sharing their knowledge, and attendees networking with others who are similarly passionate about expanding hands-on, career-connected education in Maine.

Hosted by the Maine Department of Education (DOE) Extended Learning Team, the event featured an ELO showcase, where attendees had the opportunity to meet students and ELO coordinators from schools across Maine, as well as state-level career planning partners, such as the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), the Community Coordinators Collaborative (c3), and others. There was also a mock public hearing and tours of the State House available to give students the full experience of the Maine State Capitol.

Maine DOE ELO Coordinator Lana Sawyer, Policy Director, Human Services, in the Governor’s Office of Policy Innovation and the Future Ana Hicks, Maine DOE Director of Workforce Development and Innovative Pathways Tammy Ranger, Maine DOE School Finance Manager Ida Batista

Mikaela Ziobro from Junior Achievement of Maine

Maine DOE Director of Strategic Partnerships Ayesha Hall

Kathryn Ference and Caili Elwell from the Maine Tourism Association

Since 2022, Maine has made a strong investment in expanding ELOs through dedicated funding, support, and resources. Initial funding through the Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan (MJRP) helped launch and expand 26 ELO programs in schools statewide. Building on that momentum, the Maine DOE’s ELO 2.0 Expansion Grant program has continued to support both the sustainability of existing programs and the development of new opportunities for students. To date, more than $7.1 million in ELO Expansion Grants has been awarded to support 38 ELO programs serving schools across 13 of Maine’s 16 counties.

The ELO showcase at the Hall of Flags demonstrated how hands-on learning is helping students build real-world skills and connections that go beyond the classroom to help them discover a stronger sense of purpose and vision for their future. Throughout the afternoon, in speeches and interviews, students shared stories of how programs like internships and personal projects have shaped their educational journeys and goals.

Brunswick High School (Brunswick School Department) ELO students Marco, Nat, Jansen, Noah, and Jack

Brunswick High School (Brunswick School Department) ELO students Enne and Avery

Buckfield Jr/Sr High School - Oxford County, Maine(MSAD/RSU 10) ELO students Elyza, Savanna, Natalie, Marissa, Ella, Karlee, with the ELO coordinator, Gretchen Kimball

Maine Arts Academy ELO students Max and Acadia

Marshwood High School (MSAD 35) ELO Coordinator Rob Scully with student Olivia

Noble Middle and High School (MSAD 6 Central Office) ELO students Maddy, Lauren, and Lizzy

Brewer High School (Brewer School Department) ELO students Brian, Haleigh, Kylie, and Charlie

Belfast High School (RSU 71) ELO coordinator Solomon Heifetz with ELO student Bryant

Jack, a student at Gorham High School (Gorham School Department), showcases a 3D printed RC car as part of his ELO project. Jack earned physics credits for his project.

Brewer High School senior Haileigh Pinkham shared how her internship at the Eastern Maine Emergency Veterinary Clinic allowed her to pursue a lifelong passion for animals, while gaining firsthand experience in veterinary medicine.

“Shadowing at the clinic has allowed me to see real procedures, operations, and how emergency situations are handled. Without this opportunity, I may not have otherwise been able to see these things,” Pinkham said. “Something that I really enjoy about my ELO is that I get to step out of the traditional classroom setting and still continue to learn but about something I’m genuinely passionate about.”

Similarly, Brunswick High School senior Jansen Weaver spoke about how ELOs changed the trajectory of his future and guided him toward his path in finance.

“A year ago, if you had asked me what my future looked like, I don’t know if I would have had a clear answer,” Weaver said. “Today, I stand before you with a clear path in finance and a professional foundation to pursue it.”

Weaver explained that the experience gave him confidence and practical skills that are preparing him for college and a future career in ways a classroom alone could not.

“These are skills you simply cannot develop from a textbook alone,” Weaver said.

While students remained at the heart of the ELO showcase, the work that they do would not be possible without the educators and coordinators standing beside them. Brewer High School ELO Coordinator Kevin Napolillo explained the value of these programs in a speech at the event.

“It’s not about being in the vet clinic,” Napolillo said while introducing Pinkham. “It’s about talking to actual veterinarians. It’s about being able to pick the brains of people who are in the industry.”

Napolillo added that students gain something far more valuable than information alone: perspective. Through conversations with professionals, students learn the realities of careers and their broader impact.

Brunswick High School, Brunswick School Department ELO Coordinator and Maine DOE ELO Consultant Rick Wilson

Brewer High School student Haleigh Pinkham talks about her ELO experience at Eastern Maine Emergency Veterinary Clinic as ELO Coordinator Kevin Napolillo looks on

Brunswick High School ELO student Jansen

By giving students the opportunity to engage directly with industry professionals, ELO programs are helping young people develop practical skills while also building a collaborative network throughout the state. The partnerships created through ELOs strengthen relationships between schools and local businesses, encouraging a more community-centered approach to education, in which learning becomes tied directly to real-world opportunities and Maine’s ever-evolving workforce.

*Noble Middle and High School School ELO student Anna and Yarmouth ELO student Vagni interviewed event participants.*

By the end of the event, it was clear that students’ ELO experiences are some of the most impactful learning experiences happening—not only within a school building but out in the world that students are preparing to enter. A highlight of the event was the launch of “Career-connected Learning: Maine’s Extended Learning Opportunity (ELO) Profiles of Success”, a publication that features a variety of ELO students and different sectors throughout Maine. It was a collaborative effort of the Maine DOE, DECD’s Maine Career Exploration program, and the Data Innovation Project at the Catherine Cutler Institute at the University of Southern Maine.

For more information about ELOs, please visit the Maine DOE website or contact Maine DOE Extended Learning Coordinator Lana Sawyer at lana.sawyer@maine.gov.